Performing `Umrah before Hajj

Q 3: I did not perform Hajj because I am not financially capable of performing it. However, I would like to perform `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) because it is not as costly as Hajj. Is it permissible for me to perform `Umrah before I can perform Hajj? (Part No. 10; Page No. 24)

A: If the situation is as you mentioned in the question, you are not required to perform Hajj under the circumstances mentioned in the question because you are not financially capable. However, if you are financially capable of performing `Umrah, then you are obliged to perform it. This is based on the Ayah (Qur'anic verse) in which Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) says: So keep your duty to Allâh and fear Him as much as you can Allah (Glorified be He) also says: And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allâh, for those who are able to undertake the journey. Whenever you have the financial means to perform Hajj, then you must perform it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.